Who I Am...

I am...a dreamer of life's possibilities

I want...our world to get along

I have...ten not so perfectly painted nails and ten even less perfectly painted toes

I wish...I knew what I wanted to be

I hate...fighting (especially Ammon) more than anything :(

I fear....losing Mariah, Ammon, Mama, and Athena

I hear...the most amazing people share their lives and loves with me

I search...the web for information on anything to just know more

I wonder...if my kids will have red hair

I regret...some things but would not take them back because I'm happier than I've ever been

I love...my Ammon and his family to pieces

I ache...for animals in testing facilities and entertainment

I always...talk to Athena in the most ridiculous baby voice

I usually...put makeup on even if its at work @2 or before Ammon comes over @6

I am not...very empathetic if I don't like you or feel burdened by you

I dance...everywhere

I sing...in the car at the top of my lungs like a crazy

I never...eat tomatoes that are harvested by Satan

I sometimes...bite Athena

I cry...whenever Ammon and I fight (no he's not awful I just cry over everything)

I am not always...as nice as I appear to be

I lose...my keys and phone all the time

I am confused...when I really try to understand something instead of letting it flow

I need...a great dane- harlequin to be exact

I should...not procrastinate everything in my life

Who Are You?

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

Awkward
Actually being scared of a deer, hiding behind Ammon, and being convinced that its following me because of my hair.

Getting all excited for your purchase of freaking cute booties (heels) and my coveted chambray shirt only to check my bank account and realize its been pulling money out of my savings... sigh

Having really bad allergies which means I have to blow my nose a lot at work. Oh yeah, and I sound like a fog horn when I do. Seriously, I've had a coworker tell me she knew I had arrived because she heard me blow my nose.

Running into a co worker or worse superior in the bathroom ygaaagh

Sitting in front of a girl who's real life voice is my pretend ditsy voice "oh my gosh thats soooo awesooome"

Getting together with friends you haven't seen for a long time only to realize they still think its high school (no this does not pertain to your homecoming from Belize E. you're still the coolest person I know)

Almost crying at your work desk, couch, school desk, etc when you see/read/hear animal cruelty (its a problem guys just ask Ammon)

Having a co worker walk into the room and see you jump at the sound of your own phone vibrating

When Ammon tells me "you were just severely judged right now" lol its not a bad awkward cuz its a joke between us but sometimes I get self conscious.

When someone you really don't know at all well thinks you're best friends and strokes your hair and lays on your legs in front of people you do know and love

When said person ^ walks behind you but in moving you to do so she grabs your waist in such a way that you turn around assuming its your boyfriend... shudder x100

Having a kid in my class blurts out a lot of stuff HE thinks is right and totally pertains to our discussion/subject of class and repeatedly turns out to be wrong but still half jokingly half seriously argues with the professor

Awesome
Its payday tomorrow and I'm allowing myself to shop this paycheck woo woo!

Ammon gets off early today, tomorrow, and Saturday- that never happens!

Planning a trip to the state fair with me, Ammon, Mariah, and Mike this weekend yay! I miss them lots lots

When my Ammon wins (even if they won't admit it) arguments with really tunnel vision points of view people

Falling deeper in love this week. Ammon and I can't decide if its falling deeper in love or just re-realizing your love for each other... Probably both I think

Enjoying my vegetarianism

Being vegetarian which means I can finally order a super cute vegetarian shirt from PETA

Finally finding a cute and affordable chambray shirt

Getting more excited about renovating/refining my style :) this = shopping BUT saving money in the long run with some classic key pieces

Finding out my professor isn't such a douche bag afterall

Bear River Lodge a week from Sunday!!! I cannot wait to get away with Ammon Here is a preview for ya'll

Cabins at Bear River Lodge - 1 Bedroom Cabin produced by Dustin Nay on WellcomeMat

I love how relaxed and down to earth it is, the fully stocked kitchen so we can cook (which we LOVE to do), I love the bathroom with the big tub, we get a 4 wheeler for overnight (s'mores in the mountains anyone?), and we just get to relax away from it all. This girl right here is super excited.

Love, K
xoxo

Tally Tuesday

Veggie life is good so far. I did have some pepperoni pizza on Saturday but like I said, its going to be a process. I did some strength excercises last night (lunges, arm weights, crunches, etc) and have been taking Athena on walks. I notice a difference with my body when I just get out and MOVE! So this is good :) But I'll admit that I'm wanting to get my gym pass back- especially with winter coming soon and getting my cardio in on the elliptical makes it so much easier to motivate myself to get it done and its fun for me. I'm gonna have to scope out some and find a good deal. And I'll probably be doing a few sessions with Ammon's brother Michael (he's a certified Crossfit trainer and is pretty cheap-comment me if you want details), and riding my bike. And I'm thinking I might start taking my bike or something excercisey to Ammon's soccer practices so I'm motivated and have a set time to work out (and it won't interfere with our time together which is precious stuff). Love, Kxoxo

Manic Monday

A three day weekend was just what I needed! And it was a very good weekend if I do say so myself. Friday Ammon and I went to the pub for the USA vs Costa Rica footy game- always fun. Saturday I slept crazy late and went to play with Holly Jackson Bayley and Marley- and holy cow they are getting so big! Jackson can speak in full sentences now and Bayley fell asleep in my lap- :) the sweetheart. I also helped doctor their poor kitten, Goat, who got hurt outside :( It made me want to cry. Then Sunday I had a day with the fam and a relaxing night with Ammon. Today I CLEANED MY ROOM. With the three day weekend I finally got the energy and time to do it and it feels so much better physically and mentally. On Sunday and tonight Ammon Athena and I went on a walk. I love walks and I was so happy and grateful that we had the time to go on two this weekend. I like getting out of the house and doing something physical and having the time to be together and talk or goof around :) I hope everyone had a great weekend! Anyone do anything fun? Love, Kxoxo

Frilly Friday!

I am happy and looking forward to my weekend. First job where I get holidays off. Score. Other happy things on my mind: Ammon <3

Inspiration

Athena. I just love her so much and she is so dang adorable.

USA vs Costa Rica tonight.

Watching said game here. The Republican aka the pub. Someone said it perfectly: "its a dirty little irish bar but its home" except I its not dirty its clean.

Animals and animal rights.

E is hooooome!

This kid! He's so adorable! I love it and it makes me smile.

This little piggy guy (and other animals) is why I am vegetarian. But I have a confession and I'm so sad/ashamed. I ate some chicken and tuna salad at Ammon's mama's last night and I felt horrible thinking about the poor chicken I was eating with its crippled legs in the dark and dirty chicken house :( And I made the tuna salad!!! But now after finishing whats left of the salad for lunch (I'm not letting my money go to waste) I'm more motivated than ever to stick to it and make a difference.

I haven't posted a lot of pics lately so I'm glad I did today cuz I always like other peoples blog posts better when there are pictures. Have a great weekend! Three day weekend!! Love, Kxoxo

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

Go check out www.thedaybook.com. She's who I got the idea for this post series I just need to figure out how to link up properly. And she is so cute and sweet and amazingly fashionable. You'll love it. I promise. Awkward: 1- Having your boyfriend for the first time ever ask you if you farted. I can't believe I told you that... 2- Staring at all the pre-packaged food options at Whole Foods for literally 10 minutes because you don't know what vegetarian options you'll actually like. (Oh yeah I'm going vegetarian and am probably the most picky eater ever). 3- Ok this one didn't happen to me but its still awkward. Having Ammon take out the dog we were sitting, out to potty in front of the house we were sitting to have a neighbor wave and say "Hey!" and then "Oh wait... you're not Jeremy..." 4- Having to cover up your initial reaction of complete terror when an itty spider crawls across your desk and your boss is right there. 5- Being a vegetarian in an extended family of carnivores. I don't even want to have to think about that one. 6- Sitting writing this post and mentioning my vegetarian efforts while the smell of bacon surrounds me and it really smells good. But don't worry I won't :) Awesome: 1- Play fighting with your boyfriend in a wal-mart, gas station, etc then have a lady totally scuzz your boyfriend for acting like such a jerk. 2- Getting a Mongoose bike from D.I. for $15 bucks when they usually sell them for a couple hundred and then waaay more for a non used one. 3- Getting my PETA shirt, stickers, and buttons in the mail. Love the shirt and bumper sticker :) 4- Babysitting a puppy after being puppy hungry and realizing how glad I am that Athena isn't a puppy anymore. 5- Falling in love with your love again. Not that I ever fell out of love! But just those moments every once in a while when how much you love and appreciate him hits you again. 6- The Utes first game tonight baby! Woo Woo! Love, Kxoxo

A Schedule of Sorts

I've seen various blogs that keep a schedule for some or all days of the week. I'm gonna try it for awhile and see how I like it. Your feedback is always appreciated and encouraged! Sunday: Day of Rest No Post Manic Monday: Tales of the Weekend Tally Tuesday: Update (taking tally) on my health adventures i.e. vegetarian living, bike riding, excercise, etc Warm Wednesday: A challenge or call to arms about certain animal, world, community, etc issues (something to make you feel all good and warm n fuzzy) Akward and Awesome Thursday: Share some akwards and awesomes from my week (found on www.thedaybook.com). There is a way to link up to her website/blog but I need to figure out how to do it. Frilly Friday: Something that is making me happy that day. Maybe a decorating post. A good recipe. A shoutout. A new purchase. A dream. Anything goes. Shoot 'Em Up Saturday: Anything I want to share, remember, brag about ;) etc. This is a flexible post day cuz sometimes I'm not around a computer on Saturdays. We'll see how it goes! Lovey Dovey you all Love, K xoxo

I love you baby but I just can't smile :|

Ok first off:

Is this freaking weird and creepy or what? Here is the website cuz I can't figure out how to link stuff yet (ya I know you don't have to tell me how lame that sounds):
http://www.glamour.com/weddings/blogs/save-the-date/2011/08/real-wedding-album-barbie-ken.html
Check it out and let me know why this is somehow 'sweet and genius' or whatever it is this lady writer is saying. Because I think its creeeeeepy.

I read this article:
http://www.xojane.com/relationships/never-ever-tell-me-smile
after reading another similar article on glamour.com and totally agreed and laughed and remembered all the times this has happened to me.

Maybe its because my mom can be the same way i.e. if she's tired sometimes she takes on a sad quiet expression and it TICKS her off when everyone asks her "whats the matter?" "awh are you ok?" or that if Mariah is in a bad mood you just steer clear and let her come around in her own time. Anyways, maybe those contribute to me wanting to punch someone (and the article is right, its never women) square in the face when they tell me to smile.

I am a very naturally happy person. I laugh and sing and talk to myself/my dog when no one else is around (did I really just admit to that?). I am a total goof ball and spaz when I'm with my family and friends. I genuinely try to be nice and friendly to everyone I meet. I do not, however, go around with a stupid grin plastered on my face all day. Why would I? I know I'm happy, I know I'm grateful for all of the blessings in my life, I know I love everyone and everything that I have. I don't have to smile to know that.

And for some reason you guys think that by telling me to smile its gonna make me want to? "Oh! Yes sir! I'll get right on that sir!" *smile*. Uh, yeah, no. No way. In fact when someone tells me "hey why don't you smile?" or "come on smile, be happy, life's beautiful" or some other crappy line I want to do the exact opposite. One time I did: Someone kept telling me to smile (an acquaintance) over and over but I was already upset. Finally I just looked him dead in the eyes and bared all my teeth in a very pained pissed off smile. And it was awesome.

I'm allowed to look anyway that I want: weepy, ecstatic, cocky, mean, stand offish, angry, perplexed, happy, dangerous, ANYTHING and that is my perogative (i love using that word). Thats great and awesome that you walk around smiling at everyone; its great for you. Just allow me to walk around as I please. As juvenile as it sounds when someone tells me to smile I want to go all miss attitude on them and say "bitch please, you don't knooooow me" ha but I won't.

Anyone else agree with me on this one?

Love,
Kxoxo

PS: both me and E were told in high school/jr high that we looked pissed off or rude when we walked down the hall. it was news to both of us! we thought/think we're both very nice and happy people haha

PPS: geez I kinda do sound like a jerk in this post but I promise I'm not

My Love

This is Ammon. He's a Baker. He's a writer. He's a reader. He's a freaking comedian. He's a genius. He's a chef. He's a foundation. He's a pillow. He's a driver. He's a lover. He's a fighter. He's a hard worker. He's a sweetheart. He's a man. He's a boyfriend. He's a listener. He's a shoulder to cry on. He's a soccer player. He's a soccer fan. He's a soccer fanatic. He's a pub man. He's a beer-o. He's a goofball. He's a gentleman.

He is my forever love.

And that makes me the happiest girl in the world. With him I have it all no matter what I am missing. I had the most cranky, snappy, exhausting day on Tuesday and during our driving for 2 or 3 hours I was mean and crabby and unfair. He on the other hand, after being a little crank, was amazing. He made me smile, laugh, and have an amazing day after all. And that right there is why I love him. No matter what. No matter how horrible things are/may seem he has the ability to make me smile and laugh and be happy again. He brings out the best in me. I love you baby.

Now, who or what do you love?
Love,
Kxoxo

Who Me?

Vegetarianism isn't something I've arrived at lightly. The decision has resulted from a lot of thought, emotion, and research. Am I full blown 100% vegetarian now? No way. I'm easing into the transition because I tend to stick to my goals when I do it that way. I'm still researching the best ways to get all of the nutrition my body needs and how to get it without meat, recipes that I'll love, and reasons why I chose to do this in the first place. Hint: I have a very soft spot in my heart for animals and knowing the way they are mistreated and mass produced only to to add a buck to an already overflowing wallet and a pound to an already expanded waist line (waist line came from me thinking about all the meat McDonalds sells) enrages me (yes I pulled out enrages). We are all animals when it comes right down to it. I believe that all animals have a spirit whether or not they are as mentally and emotionally developed as other species. Who decided that we rank so much higher than any other animal? Because we have more knowledge and technology? That gives us more responsibility to do things humanely, but we don't. If we all killed our animals humanely and kept them in acceptable conditions like my Dad does it wouldn't be as much of a problem but no one is willing to spend a buck or two doing so. Its going to be hard but I want to do what's right and I've found that animal rights and animal welfare in general is something I'm very passionate about. Now, blog world, I'm accountable to someone/thing if I ever falter. You should watch some of the movies out there i.e. Glass Walls with Paul McCartney and Meet Your Meat they'd at least make you more educated and aware which is never a bad thing.

Love,
Kxoxo

My Safari

Sometimes I've got my camelback/backpack on, my iPod turned up, enough water and Cliff bars, and top of the line compass. And I know without a doubt exactly where I'm going. I've got the perfect pace and I'm making good and steady progress. Then there are times when my backpack is too heavy, I can't find the perfect song, I'm running low on Cliff bars, and my compass, frankly, sucks.

I want to attach Ammon or Mariah or Athena, hell all three, to the back of my pack and chat with them during my safari. If I'm low on water, Ammon will have some to share. Mariah fills up the void so music isn't needed. If I'm ever lost then I just let Athena sniff me and she'll lead me straight away. However, this safari that I'm on doesn't allow one to bring others. It's a journey that only you can participate in in order to reach the destination that will make your trek worth it.

Once I reach the 'end' I'll experience a pride and gratitude that will make me appreciate the difficulty of the safari. Are we there yet? Nope. Not even close. Am I enjoying the adventure? Absolutely. Do my resources run low now and then? Frequently.

I don't know what I want to be when I grow up. Ha! 'Grow Up' does anyone ever really grow up? For years I wanted to be a psychologist. I got to my psychology class and hated it; the scientific, structured, memorization type of learning was not for me. I did, however, like the emotional aspect of psychology: the emotional analysis, the inner healing, working through one's issues by looking inward, etc. I am now a Social Work major. But is that really what I want to do? I don't want to be at a desk all day. I want to feel and know that I am actively doing something that is important and making a difference. I've thought about becoming a lobbyist for a group that I support and believe in. Lobbying world-wide for women who are still oppressed, sexually mutilated, murdered in honor killings, earn less in a career than a man of the same caliber, etc. Maybe I'd lobby for a group like PETA. I have a very tender spot in my heart for animals and to know that they suffer for our own pleasure makes me sick. With either one of those careers I would truly feel useful and productive. I want to invoke change. Does that translate into being a writer or campaigner in DC? Maybe a yoga teacher invoking change inside a person to take better care of themselves.

The hardest part is not knowing. I'm sure I could be happy doing any of these careers. Happiness is a state of mind; you create your own happiness. But which one will I really love and be truly passionate about? I have no option but to continue in the path my education is taking me right now and hope that I don't waste resources (time and money) on different paths in the trail (credits) that I won't need at my final destination.

The end is there somewhere even if its never really 'The End' because there will always be something worth striving for.

Love,
Kxoxo

Books

So I'm a big reader. I've always been good at it (I was the first reader in my primary class thank you very much) and for the most part I've always loved it. I say most part because in elementary school I was required to read a certain amount of time each day and my aunt always always always made me do it. I'd always beg her to let me read a few minutes less than required and sometimes she'd give in by letting me go two or three minutes early. That's it. However, when I read I forgot that I was reading and really enjoyed it. I think it was the fact that it was something I was supposed to do so, naturally as a punk kid, I thought that meant I should dislike it.

Now fifteen or whatever years later I still love it. However, being a grown up definitely cuts into my reading time. There was a whole year where I honestly don't think I read a book from front to back and when I realized this I was disgusted with myself. Who was I? I was the girl who read through books in a matter of days not years! Since then I've tried to always be reading a book and depending on my schedule, how interesting the book is, etc I finish them anywhere between a few days to a few weeks. There are so many I want to read and ones that I know I'll find and read/want to read. Let me just say I don't think I will EVER read all of the books that I want to. Here are my lists:

Books I've Read & Recommend:

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee (an all time favorite which I'm reading right now)
The Awakening by Kate Chopin (makes you question a lot of your assumptions)
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseni (I need to reread this one)
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen (My first audio book. I actually haven't finished listening to it- I listen while I crochet but I really like it so far)
The Lion The Witch & The Wardrobe by CS Lewis (favorite as a kid)
Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling (besides the entertainment it really has a lot of good and deep messages)
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine (more fitting for a little girl)
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (very fitting to America's society)
Word War Z by Max Brooks (zombie love. I haven't finished it but its awesome)
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl (lovely children's book)

Books I Want/Need to Read:

The Road by Cormac McCarthy (its Ammon's fav and he's a picky reader and English degree holder so it has to be good)
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (this is a reread but I read it in elementary school)
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote (love the movie Capote with Patrick Seymoure Hoffman)
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein (from a dog's perspective)
Doctors From Hell by Vivien Spitz (about Nazi doctors)
On the Road by Jack Kerouac
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card (if my bfe wrote a song about it its def worth reading)
A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L'Engle (another reread from childhood)
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin (childhood reread)
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbett (childhood reread)
The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
Anne of Green Gables by LM Montgomery
Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger
Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Watership Down by Richard Adams
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
The Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury


And there are so many more. For example I want to read all of The Classics but there are a bunch of different lists that people claim are The Classics so we'll see... Maybe Barnes & Noble they seem pretty legit.

I'll try and add to the lists as I remember more and post an update when I do.

Love,
Kxoxo

Beauty

I'm going to try and be a bit more committed to this thing called blogging. Once again I'm sorry for my leave of absence but I promise I have really good reasons. And no thats not sarcastic I really do. Anyways lets get rolling:

I am a Pinterest addict. ADDICT. I could pin for hours and sometimes I do (guilty). I love pinning quotes, food, wedding stuff, and the occasional outfit, puppy, sarcastic quote, etc. Lately though I've been searching the entire Pinterest universe as opposed to just going through the feed of the those I follow. Guess what? Its eye opening. And I like it. I'll type in one word and get so many different perspectives on the definition of that word. Example: Strength. I am returned with a picture of a the incredibly muscular legs of a ballerina in her pointe shoes, an abstract rainbow water color of a woman's silhouette, a gorgeous chestnut horse, a beautiful 5+ point deer, a tattoo about strength, quotes about strength, and a beautiful portrait of an elderly native american.

Now I've typed in beauty. Yes, there were hundreds of beautiful images but they got me thinking, pondering, and asking myself, "what do I think is beautiful"? I truly mean beautiful. Breathtaking. Stunning. Not just pretty:

"Prettiness is the enemy of beauty- it cancels out beauty's greatness, grandeur and presence."
-Unknown

So I go through some pins for inspiration, nothing really catches my eye, so I start writing this post and ideas flow. I think back on images I've seen or experiences I've witnessed and beauty, to me, is something that moves me to tears or gives me that moment of impact of pure 'wow' because I literally feel so touched that I cannot express or recapture that moment. Beauty to me is:

A child taking care of a younger sibling, singing in the front row of the primary program into the microphone and doesn't even know it (you know what I'm talking about) saying a prayer, or talking about grown up ideas etc. Its the complete love and innocence in which they do these things. They are absolutely beautiful and unblemished from the world (in most cases) and they know and believe in God, good people, happiness, love, etc and it makes me happy. Their undying faith and optimism in those around them, God, life, the world, everything. Children are beauty.

Love between a man and woman (of course I think all types of love are beautiful but especially this kind). Especially during/in photos of a wedding. Those moments when you are completely giving yourself to that other person because you love them SO much, beyond words, for the rest of eternity. You have committed to one another forever. To get through everything together no matter the circumstance, to build a life together. To find that person out of all others that fits you perfectly, lifts you up when you resist and try to stay down, who loves you for 100% who you are, not who you could/should/would be.

Animals. I LOVE animals. They are amazing, beautiful, mysterious, and complex creatures that are a gift to this world. To see the strength and technique it takes for a tiger to catch its prey, a dolphin swimming at the stern of a boat playing tag, a giant whale swimming up to every single volunteer who helped free them from a net to thank them, coming home to your pet who loves you unconditionally and happily. Animals are so innocent and childlike to me. Of course they can take care of themselves, etc but there is a innocence that they have which is absolutely beautiful. I truly feel blessed to have these amazing creatures around us and believe we should do all we can to respect and protect them as well.

Birth. I'm not talking about the actual physical process of birth. I'm talking about the beauty of bringing another human being into this world and raising that innocent baby with every ounce of love you have. I do not know but I've heard from countless parents that there is nothing like the love you have for your child. I wish I could explain it the way they do but I can't. I do know that it is a miracle and beauty all its own.

Love you all

Love,
Kxoxo

Thank You

"Young men and women are risking their lives, their futures, in many cases their own opportunities to marry or have children. They risk the blessing of sitting on their front porch and watching the sunset as grandkids chase the neighbor’s cat across the front lawn.

Or perhaps they choose to do none of those things. But without a heartbeat they will have no choice.

Consider that, will you? The fact that men and women of our military and emergency services risk so willingly every day, so bravely, is awe inspiring. They make Superman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman and every other childhood hero look like losers. These soldiers are too big for comic book pages and movie screens."

Jason F. Wright 'Are You Proud To Be An American?' Deseret News

The bulk of the article that this quote is from is about feeling 'It', being proud to be an American. He gives different examples of when he or others have felt 'It' and asks you if you have.

I have definitely felt it before but I have never felt it more then I have this past year. My sense of gratitude and pride has increased so much more than I could have ever imagined and I have three very important people in my life to thank for this: Mike, Mariah, and Ammon.

Ammon just finished his duty with The National Guard in February after 9 years. Thankfully he never had to go over seas but he did help with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Viewing his duty to go to Louisiana really gave me a different view of what a National Guard soldier is asked to do. Its not just 1 weekend a month, 3 weeks a year at all. You are on call to come fight a fire (like the one at Camp Williams), literally help save people or prevent future damage during natural and other disasters, fight overseas, and so much more. I am so proud to be able to tell everyone that the man I love made this sacrifice. I couldn't ask for a better man to have and love and call my own.

Mike has been in The National Guard almost a year now. I have never seen someone more dedicated than Mike is. He truly loves his country. Not only does he fulfill his duty to be a soldier but he does it positively. Of course he could focus on the negative but I have never heard him do it. Even though he was away from home he loved basic training and I know that didn't come without effort. Now as he gears up to train and go to the middle east he is still upbeat and happy and optimistic. I feel so unbelievably proud to have my big brother (in law) overseas for me, for my family, for that guy who will probably hit on his wife while he's gone, for his mom, for his little brother, for the old lady down the street he's never met, for you. I will miss him so much when he leaves but I know that he will be ok. I know that he will remain strong. I know that the Lord will be with him every single step of the way. I know he will not lose faith. I know this because I know he is a great man who is stronger than this deployment and has so much to come home to.

Mariah. Oh my little baby sister. I cannot express how 'in awe' of her I am. She is The strongest woman I know and I am so happy and grateful that I get to call her my sister. She is my support, my encouragement, my conscience at times, my inspiration, my confidant, my best friend. And on top of all this she is the amazing wife of an even more amazing married couple. They were married on August 7 and he left (i think) on August 16. She got to see him for 2 days in October for his basic training graduation, he got 10 days home for Christmas, and then came back in January. Now he starts training this month, comes back in August for a few days, goes to Texas in September, gets a few days for Christmas, then ships out to the middle east. This is all in their FIRST TO SECOND YEAR of marriage. She remains so strong, faithful, diligent, and responsible while he is gone, and she remains positive and productive. It is amazing the amount of strength one has when you are called upon to use it and this woman is the strongest I know.

Thank you Ammon for being the kind of man that is willing to sacrifice for the greater good and being the man that I need. Thank you Mike for being the man that you are, for sacrificing your time with your wife and family to protect all of us here at home, for being the most amazing husband to Mariah, and for keeping her safe and happy.

Before Mike came into our lives I never really thought about the families of our armed forces, what they go through, how much they sacrifice but now I know. So thank you. Thank you Mariah for being the best friend and sister I could ask for, for sacrificing your time with your amazing husband for all of us here, for staying strong through all of this (but its ok to be sad too, I'm always here), and for doing it all with your unwavering positivity and faith (I learn so much from you). And thank you to Alisha, Brad, Grandma Joan, and others who raised such an amazing man. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being such a strong, loving, and supportive family to Mariah, and for your sacrifice to our country. I know its not easy. I'm trying not to cry at work while I write this and I'm only his sister-in-law. He truly is one of the best things to ever happen to our family and it is because he was raised and loved and taught by such wonderful and kind people.

I am so proud to have these people and examples in my life. I am proud to love each of them. I am proud I get to learn from them everyday. I am proud to be an American.

Fov-Or-Eets aka Favorites With a Cool Accent

My dear friend Megan did a post about her favorite products/things on her blog a few weeks ago and I've seen some other blog friends do similar posts and I thought it would be fun so here we go!

Smart Water

Yes Jennifer I feel the same way. I have never been a bottled water snob but now I am a Smart Water snob. It just tastes so clean and fresh and I LOVE the bottle lol I usually use the bottle for a week and fill it up with filtered water but Ammon made the point that if I bought one of the big ones it saved money so now I'm gonna fill it up that way until the big bottle is gone so I don't spend millions on water lol

Baby Lotion

Again I've never been a lotion user but Ammon had baby lotion at his house and I really liked it so now I try and use it after every shower. I love how its light and not greasy, absorbs fast, and doesn't leave a strong scent (the three reasons I didn't like using it before) AND it makes my skin super soft :) However, next time I'm getting the kind in the white bottle because i like the smell better/

Garnier Fructis Deep Conditioner Sleek and Shine

I blow dry and straighten my hair probably 2 to 3 times a week but it used to be a ton more and my hair grows really slow so its still recuperating. I thought I'd try a deep conditioner once a week or so but this stuff rocks! I use it everyday and it doesn't weigh down or overload my hair at all (I even put it into my roots, which is usually a no no with fine hair but its a ok with this stuff so far). When I get around to blow drying and straightening my hair this stuff keeps my fly aways at bay annnd leaves it super smooth and shiny :)

Bear Naked

I'm usually a pretty healthy eater. That is until a chocolate craving hits for a day or two... but this stuff is super good. I like this flavor best but they have a bunch more; they vary on what store you go to. It may seem expensive but when you read the serving size its 1/4 a cup which is not a whole lot. Thats because granola is so dense so it packs the calories you need in a smaller serving. So as long as i stick to that it lasts me a couple weeks. Oh and I love eating it with Strawberry Banana yogurt for breakfast.

Falsies Mascara

I usually buy a different mascara every time I run out but I really like this stuff! I like to have a lot of mascara to fill up my fine and blonde eyelashes but I don't like the clumping, etc. This stuff really makes them big and long and kinda falsie (but not really false just big and pretty like).

Too Faced Naked Eye Soft & Sexy Eye Shadow

Dear dear Kels gave me this for Christmas and I use it pretty much everyday. I use it for school, work, play, date nights, family, everything. Its so versatile because the colors in the pallet all work together really well and they range from super light to black, so you can layer and dress up or down as much as you want! It is available at Sephora :)

Smashbox Soft Lights in Baked Stardust

Probably won't buy another bronzer/highlighter because I like this a lot. Love that it isn't too overwhelming or too light on my fair skin, it isn't heavy or cakey, and you can layer it for more color if you like. I also sometimes use the individual colors for highlight when I don't want to wear eyeshadow and it looks very pretty and bright eyed.

Lola Marc Jacobs

Ok I got a sample of this from Sephora maybe 6 months ago and I LOVE IT. I only use it when I'm feeling particularly pretty or sexy or I want Ammon to love the way I smell lol I'm pretty sure this is his favorite. And I know I'm gonna either have to bite the bullet and buy it or ask for it at Christmas :) Its hard to describe but I think its sexy and girly and fun and mature and not overwhelming all in one. I always feel super pretty when wearing it :)

Pure DKNY

Also a sample from Sephora 6 months ago. This stuff is so light and... yeah pure lol Seriously its just wonderful. Not too light and not too heavy. Its perfect for summer and when I want to feel all light and airy and pretty and fresh :)

So there you have it! Wonderful stuff I tell ya

Love,
Kxoxo

Dollar and Some Change

I am a home body. I am a stay in or have a quiet night out kinda girl. Jeez even the pub we go to is nice and low key. I like to eat the things that I've always liked to eat. I like coming home to how my life at home. I like knowing I can always count on Athena greeting me with a shoe. I like the way I wash my face and take out my contacts every night (since high school). Aka I don't like change.

Okay maybe that is a bit dramatic *surprise surprise* but change is scary and uncomfortable and different and it is especially The Unknown.

Because of soon to be changes it has made me think about why I am the way I am regarding change in my life. Thinking about it now I have avoided it quite a bit in my life: I have dated guys for a lot longer than I wanted to/should have, not because I loved them oh so much but because I was comfortable. Of course I still liked them but that wasn't the determining factor. I had a hard time when not only Mariah but when Mike moved away (obviously). I felt like I was losing my little sister and big brother, but I knew it was what made them happy and what was best for them and I of course still see them. However! I can truly say that I just honestly, truly, really really didn't want E to move to USU because she's my best friend and I wanted to be able to still see her every day. So yeah that kind of ties into change but it was more about her, not the change.

Another reason I think change is hard is because sometimes (usually most of the time) it involves people in my life. Whether it be losing them, being distanced from them, or just not really seeing them a whole lot. I am a very personable person who loves making friends with everyone and the ones that I do make are genuine friendships to me. I get to know these people and end up loving their guts and I don't want to leave! But sometimes change is the best thing. And that sucks lol

But I have faith that things will work out exactly how they are supposed to. That,
and I have an amazing man who is always supportive in everything that I do, so I know I can do anything (within reason of course) with his help. You rock my socks off babe :)

gn: center;

And thats (up above quote) is okay.

Love,
Kxoxo

Tunes

I have been so music infatuated lately. I love when even you can't express what you're feeling and you stumble upon a song that does just that almost perfectly. It doesn't even have to be that the lyrics fit a little or even at all, sometimes its the music and feeling or meaning that the artist gives and expresses. Sometimes I can be completely depressed, I can't figure out why or what I'm feeling but then I listen to a song and it brings me back to the desire to be happy and resolve whatever it is that is upsetting me. At other times I am in such an amazing, happy, goofy mood and I pick a song (preferably Obla Di Obla Da) and it makes me dance silly and sing out way loud; it puts a huge smile on mine and Ammon's face and we have such a good time (usually in the car). Even thinking about it now makes me happy and puts a smile on my face. At other times I listen to this one specific song and... I can't even really describe what I feel except complete happiness and love and gratitude to have him in my life. Or this certain song that reminds me of my dad, sister and brother (in law). Songs that express my desires, dreams, fears, insecurities, gratitude, loves, content, ambition, empowerment, strength, courage, hurt, thoughts, anger, perseverance, and more.

Current Inspiration:

Levon; Elton John

Your Song; Elton John

Tiny Dancer; Elton John

Obla-Di Obla-Da; The Beatles

Born This Way; Lady Gaga

The Luckiest; Ben Folds

Kesley Elizabeth; Emily Kofford

(photography: Elicia Launi elicialauni.blogspot.com)
The Awakening; Emily Kofford

Marry Me; Train

And there you have it. Golly this post made me happy. I do have an amazing life and incredible people to love, be loved by, and share it with.

Love,
Kxoxo

I Dunno Either

As my lovely blog/high school friend Hillary pointed out in her post: does anyone really know what they are doing 100%? No changing your major, wondering if its the right one, completely certain of where you are, where you are going, totally know who you are, etc because if you are then I applaud you like 1000x over. Of course I know a few things for certain: I love Athena, I love Ammon, I want to have a family someday, I want to get married someday, I want to get a Masters, I want to buy an older house and make it a home, I want to live on my own, I want to go to Europe, I want to travel, family is the most important thing to me, I want to have a career in which I help people, I always want to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, I want a Great Dane BUT even though I haven't achieved all of that yet I'm incredibly happy now. Because this picture quote is absolutely true and I love it.

I think it is a lot of what is wrong with our society today. People keep waiting for happiness. Wait for the bigger house, the better job, the better degree but that's not the point! The point is to be happy and content through every stage of your development (like a butterfly; which is why if I get a tattoo that is what it will be). This is your life, right now, good and bad, and its beautiful. As Marilyn Monroe said: "So keep your head high, keep your chin up, and most importantly, keep smiling, because life's a beautiful thing and there's so much to smile about." I will post the whole quote at the end of the post.
Of course I get discouraged sometimes at working working working on everything in my life non stop but hey, that's life. And if I'm not happy now I'm not going to be happy because all of a sudden I have a house or a Great Dane. Sometimes I do question if Social Work is for me, maybe Humanities or Political Science? But I think about the reasons why I first wanted to do counseling, etc and it still feels right. Sometimes I get discouraged that I still live at home like a kid but then I remind myself that the only thing I do not pay for is rent and I remember that I am very responsible and self sufficient. Sometimes I feel like school is freaking hard and it just keeps going and going but then I remind myself of how much I like a class, or professor, and most importantly why I am going: to secure a happy, every developing and driven life. And sometimes I feel like people are hard on me and expect way too much from me and I shift the focus from what others think or expect to what I think and expect- its ok that I can't give everyone everything they want from me or to tell someone no, or do something that others disagree with. This is my life and its about what makes ME happy, not them. Remember that for yourself too and that almost all of us are a little lost and confused too. After all, there's no instruction booklet for life, we're all just learning as we go and someday we'll figure it all out.


Love,
Kxoxo

Here's the quote :)
"This life is what you make it. No matter what you're going to mess up sometimes, it's a universal truth. But the good part is you get to decide how you're going to mess it up. Girls will be your friends - they'll act like it anyway. But just remember, some come, some go. The ones that stay with you through everything - they're your true best friends. Don't let go of them. Also remember, sisters make the best friends in the world. As for lovers, well, they'll come and go too. And babe, I hate to say it, most of them - actually pretty much all of them are going to break your heart, but you can't give up becuase if you give up, you'll never find your soul mate. You'll never find that half who makes you whole and that goes for everything. Just because you fail once, doesn't mean you're gonna fail at everything. Keep trying, hold on, and always, always, always believe in yourself, because if you don't then who will sweetie? So keep your head high, keep your chin up, and most importantly, keep smiling, because life's a beautiful thing and there's so much to smile about."
— Marilyn Monroe

So when I dont have time to do a very detailed post, nothing major to post about, etc I still like to write about something and answering questions about me pretty easy. I'd like to think I know myself pretty well

1. What time did you get up this morning?
6:30 AM ahhhh

2. How do you like your steak?
Medium rare Ammon style

3. What was the last movie you saw?
Ummm I think Love and Other Drugs

4. What is your favorite TV show?
Walking Dead

5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Europe (think England, Spain, Ireland)

6. What did you have for breakfast?
I will be having a toasted PB&J

7. What is your favorite cuisine?
Other than American, Italian. But I like good ole hometown Americano

8. What foods do you dislike?
Tomatoes are awful horrid creations, mushrooms, olvies

9. Favorite Place to Eat?
Rumbi and home

10. Favorite dressing?
Tomatillo Ranch

11. What kind of vehicle do you drive?
Just got my Pontiac Vibe woo woo!

12. What are your favorite clothes?
Shorts and V Necks

13. Where would you visit if you had the chance?
Europe. All of Europe.

14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full?
Always half full

15. Where would you want to retire?
Somewhere near my family or warm

16. Favorite time of day?
Day like 11am-7pm

17. Where were you born?
Cedar City

18. What is your favorite sport to watch?
On TV: Basketball, Soccer In Person: Basketball, Football, and Soccer

19. Who do you think will not tag you back?
I have a feeling we're not on FB Todo

20. Person you expect to tag you back first?
Please see above

21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this?
Enough already!

22. Bird watcher?
No unless Athena is trying to chase them because it hilarious

23. Are you a morning person or a night person?
Middle of the day definitely not morning

24. Do you have any pets?
Awww my Athena

25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share?
I'm super very wonderfully happy :D thats always exciting

26. What did you want to be when you were little?
I think a vet or a teacher

27. What is your best childhood memory?
Oh man. Warm spring/summer nights with friends and family

28. Are you a cat or dog person?
dog

29. Are you married?
nopers

30. Always wear your seat belt?
yes

31. Been in a car accident?
yep

32. Any pet peeves?
Slow overly cautious drivers, people who continually focus on what they don't have instead of what they do have.

33 Favorite Pizza Topping?
Pepperoni

34. Favorite Flower?
Gerber daisies and Lilies

35. Favorite ice cream?
Chocolate Peanut Butter

36. Favorite fast food restaurant?
Rumbi or Costa Vida

37. How many times did you fail your driver's test?
zero

38. From whom did you get your last email?
I don't know Aeropostale?

39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit cards?
Ikea

40. Do anything spontaneous lately?
Zoo :)

41. Like your job?
For reals yes :)

42. Broccoli?
yeah when its cooked

43. What was your favorite vacation?
Spring Break to Cali and Vegas with E

44. Last person you went out to dinner with?
Ammon; he's a pretty good date if I do say so myself

45. What are you listening to right now?
The Fray on Hampton Radio. They were playing Madonna earlier- craziness

46. What is your favorite color?
Yellow Black Green

47. How many tattoos do you have?
zero

48. How many are you tagging for this quiz?
once again. NOT fb

49. What time did you finish this quiz?
9:42 AM

50. Coffee Drinker?
When I have to be. Like this morning. Or when it sounds good, like a Java Chip Frappucino from Starbucks.

I got my first car last week! All my own :) Onto building my credit and having something that I really like and have to work to keep, maintain, etc. Its a Pontiac Vibe 2003, Silver, Black Interior (YES!), stick (oh yeah!), and it has a hatchback which is the perfect little place for Athena (she won't get the interior dirty and hairy and if we're ever in a wreck its not very big and she'd only hit the back seat and not fly through the windshield or hit other people in the car) I gotta keep my baby safe!

In other news me and Ammon have talked about going to the zoo and just decided to go yesterday. It was fun! I got to see all my favorites: Elephants (the baby Zuri was so freaking cute all sucking water up with her little fuzzy trunk); Tigers (one big guy/gal was up and walking (crazy cuz that NEVER happens) and another was just sleeping in the shade where we could just stare at them (they are so beautiful I love them); and Gorillas (super fav!) this one male (i think) gorilla was just staring out with this piece of wood or plastic (maybe like 4" by 10") and all of a sudden got angry threw it ran back and then banged on the glass at all of us- I'd never seen one do anything like that! But he was very handsome and I loved him.

Okey Dokey I'll get back to all you Kool Kats later
Love,
Kxoxo

Birthdays and Dates and Cars

OOOOOKAAY lets get this show on the road:

Twenty One!

For my birthday I got to spend all day with Ammon :D He snuck away for a sec and came back with my favorite flowers (he always gets really awesome flowers; the last ones lived for literally 2 and a half weeks)and my gift! Then (I'm sorry the details are so vague but its been a while since the 29th of April) Josie, Ammon, and I met Elise, Sam, Taylor, MDubb, Kenne, and Guts at Chili's (Kels and Jasen met us there a bit later)and we had a grand ole time! So I thought that I'd be really smart and eat a lot so I wouldn't be drinking on an empty stomach. Well, APPARENTLY eating a lot and drinking while doing so is a horrible combo. I got SO freaking bloated it wasn't even funny. After dinner Ammon took me to the pub for the first time (my first bar! lol) and I could only get not even half of a hedgehog, or whatever its called (I know thats not right but I don't remember). Its a hard cider and its way better than beer (gross). After the pub we went to Marta's and I got wonderful presents (yaya) and wonderful birthday glass. But guess what? I couldn't use it cuz my stomach was so owy! Ammon made fun of me because I literally looked pregnant. Sadly, we left at midnight and I fell asleep in the car because of the food/drink plan. However, I had an AWESOME birthday and I'm so glad I got to spend it with all of best friends who I love so much :) On Sunday my family had a family dinner for me (my mama's amazing chicken enchiladas and cheescake) and I loved getting to spend time with all of them!

Can I just say that I love date nights :) Even the simplest ones. Of course Ammon and I spend a lot of time together but its nice to just take a break from our normal day to day stuff and just have fun and be with each other. This week we went to Red Iguana (holy moly that stuff is good).
I thought we went to the wrong one when I saw the outside lol but he reassured me this was the place. After that we got a brownie peanut butter sundae at Leatherbys or however you spell it. Jeez that place is weird. A handcart etched front door (?), old fashioned sundaes painted on the walls, Disney music only (I may listen to it in my car- as Ammon so kindly pointed out- but it was kinda weird in a restaurant), and then pictures of flowers? landscape? something off the wall like that. Needless to say, I was Ammon's entertainment as I went on and on about how weird it was. We then rented Blue Valentine and it was a waste of time. I was really excited to see it, it got great reviews, two awesome actors, and then nada. It ended really weird and didn't conclude or solve anything. *Sigh* Oh well, wonderful night nonetheless.

And last but not least guess who got a new car? THIS GIRL right here! Yep I'm pretty excited :) My first very own car! I will be back soon to post pictures and details. Maybe share the frustrating months long journey to find one :) I'm thinking I may name her Molly after 'Obla Di Obla Da' its my favorite song to sing to in the car.

Love,
Kxoxo

My Lovely Weakness

Ohhh my Athena. She is such a ham and I love her so. She is also the perfect example of a basset hound: she can pout, look sad, make you feel guilty, be a total clown, thinks she's a lap dog at 40 lbs, can reach anything and everything on counters and tables, deep howls and barks, very smart, VERY stubborn, selective hearing, will do anything for food, selective memory, completely and totally loving and affectionate, a part of every family function, crazy about scents, drools when a treat is placed in front of her, amazing pet, member of the family, loves sleeping under the covers, thinks EVERYONE (human or animal) wants to be her best friend, etc. So for those of you who haven't had the pleasure of meeting a basset this describes them awesomely haha

The Basset Hound Dictionary

LEASH: A strap which attaches to your collar, enabling you to lead your person where you want him/her to go.

DOG BED: Any, soft, clean surface, such as the white bedspread in the guest room or the newly upholstered couch in the living room.

DROOL: Is what you do when your persons have food and you don't. To do this properly you must sit as close as you can and look sad and let the drool fall to the floor or better yet, on their laps.

GARBAGE CAN: A container which your neighbors put out once a week to test your ingenuity. You must stand on your hind legs and try to push the lid off with your nose. If you do it right you are rewarded with margarine wrappers to shred, beef bones to consume and moldy crusts of bread.

BICYCLES: Two wheeled exercise machines, invented for dogs to control body fat. To get maximum aerobic benefit, you must hide behind a bush and dash out, bark loudly and run alongside for a few yards: the person then swerves and falls into the bushes, you prance away.

DEAFNESS: This is a malady which affects dogs when their person wants them in and they want to stay out. Symptoms include staring blankly at the person, then running in the opposite direction, or lying down.

THUNDER STORMS: This is a signal that the world is coming to an end. Humans remain amazingly calm during thunderstorms, so it is necessary to warn them of danger by trembling uncontrollably, panting, rolling your eyes wildly, and following at their heels.

WASTEBASKET: This is a dog toy filled with paper, envelopes and old candy wrappers. When you get bored, turn over the basket and strew the papers all over the house until your person comes home.

SOFAS: Are to dogs like napkins are to people. After eating it is polite to run up and down the front of the sofa and wipe your whiskers clean.

BATH: This a process by which the humans drench the floor, walls and themselves. You can help by shaking vigorously and frequently.

BUMP: The way to get your humans attention when they are drinking a fresh cup of coffee or tea.

GOOSE BUMP: A maneuver to use as a last resort when the regular bump does not get the attention you require.

LOVE: A feeling of intense affection, given freely and without restriction. The best way you can show your love is to wag your tail. If you are lucky a human will love you in return.

Author Unknown

One of the cutest things she does though is play! She'll get kinda hyper and just sit in front of the sofa and stare at my mom. Just stare. When that doesn't work she'll paw at my mom's feet. This is usually accompanied by soft crying and lamented howling (she's really good with the histrionics I tell ya) She then proceeds to climb onto the couch on the arm and head rests (literally she thinks she's a cat up there, she suns in the afternoon ha!) and walks on over to put her nose in whatever my mom is doing. She licks her, rubs her nose on her cheeks, paws her, tries to climb ON her, and then when my mom laughs and tries to bat her away she takes that as a sign of play time. And she's off tearing down the hall then jumping on the couch back and forth about 4 times, barking and darting ALL over the place. Its freaking hilarious and we always laugh at her lol Then we'll play with her for a little bit and if we're lucky she'll be tuckered out.

She really is my baby and a part of the family and I don't regret a single bit that I bought her and brought her home with me :) She always keeps me on my toes, motivated, happy, and loved. And maybe you're not a dog person but it just had to be said. Deal with it.

Love,
Kxoxo

Yes. I did this a few months ago. No. I do not care. Since I have been gone so long -I'm really sorry by the way- I need something to post that won't take too much effort or creativity. Sheesh do I sound lazy or what? I promise I'm not, just busy :)

4 shows I watch:

1) American Idol (my first season since jr. high ya'll!)
2) Harry Potter (I usually have it on right before bed even if its only for ten minutes. What can I say? Its like comfort food. But its not food...)
3) Walking Dead (did I finish the first season like two months ago? Yeah I did, I admit it, but I will certainly be watching it when the second season airs!)
4) Teen Mom 2 (you may say lame. I say interesting. I'm not advocating teenage pregnancy at all. I find their plight and that of their children and families a real issue in society today. Annnnd I'm a sucker for reality tv when I find the time)


4 things I'm passionate about:

1) My family (I've always been passionate about my family but lately I've been learning about it in a different way. It's made me think twice and let go and move forward. Family is everything.)
2) Being in love (Its the best and happiest feeling in the world. To have love for another and to be able to share that love with each other is a beautiful thing. Twitterpation! I love you Ammon :D )
3) Learning (I love learning. I love school. I love my talks with Ammon because I always learn something new. I love talking to people about their beliefs or their lives and experiences. I love to talk but I learn so much more when I listen.)
4) Animals and Children (I know its kinda weird to lump these two together but animals really are child-like. Both are innocent, blind to judgment, carefree, love unconditionally, and hardly independent lol. A lot of times I feel like its my job to protect and love them and I love doing it. They can always make me happy even on my worst days.)

4 phrases I say a lot:

1) I love you.
2) Oh brother
3) Its so hot in here.
4) Thank you for calling, Hampton Inn Salt Lake City North this is Kesley, how may I help you?


4 things I have learned from the past:

1) Forgive. The person who gets hurt the most when you stay angry is you.
2) "Smile! Because life is a beautiful place and there's so much to smile about" Marilyn Monroe.
3) Its ok to ask for help! I don't have to do everything by myself.
4) There is no room for judgement on others. Love everyone. Until you know every. single. thing. about a person you have no right to be cruel, unfair, etc. and even then, you still don't.


4 things I did yesterday:

1) Almost died because my stomach hurt so bad. It still hurts. BUT its getting better yay!
2) Bought new tires for the Bronco
3) Went to math whoop whoop! <---- THAT is totally sarcastic
4) Cuddled and played with Athena :D



4 places I would love to visit:

1) England
2) Ireland
3) Caribbean
4) Italy
5) Africa
6) Spain
7) Washington haha!
8) South America (at first I typed Southern America, which probably isn't incorrect but sounds kind of weird and dorky)
Obviously I really want to travel


4 things I'm looking forward to:

1) Playing with Riley when I get the chance (what can I say, I'm totally smitten by an almost 2 year old. And of course the terrific Haun trio.)
2) Playing with Ammon (did I mention I'm still like a twitterpated Bambi even though we've been dating for almost 6 months)
3) Vegas in August!
4) Getting my Bachelors (I know that I still have 2 to 3 years but I'm still happy I'm doing it and if you think about the last 2 years of your life... it goes by pretty fast. Am I right? Huh? Yeah I'm soooo right


4 things I love about summer:

1) Shorts
2) Sitting outside in the evening
3) Thunderstorms
4) Snow cones

I'll be back soon to post about my birthday. The big 2-1
Love,
Kxoxo

Here are 100 ways to uncomplicate it...

And by it I mean life. Thanks Chloe for posting this on FB! I liked it so much I wanted to post it again

1. Don’t try to read other people’s minds
2. Get up 30 minutes earlier so that you don’t rush/get a ticket while driving too fast/have to explain why you’re late/get fired
3. Get 8 hours of sleep per night so that you think more clearly
4. Stick to your budget
5. Start saving and investing every week, no matter how little you can spare
6. Balance your checkbook
7. Don’t try to be friends with everyone. Cultivate closer relationships with fewer people.
8. Don’t try to do business with everyone. Identify your target client and take very good care of them.
9. Before getting angry, ask yourself if it will really matter in 20 years
10. Focus on being a good person, not on pleasing others
11. Stay home this Saturday, and finish off that nagging chore that you need to finish
12. Kiss and make up
13. Make a weekly menu, and shop for only those items at the market
14. Ask your grandparents the best way to uncomplicate life, and try it for a month
15. Fill up your gas tank when it’s half full
16. Don’t drink alcohol when you’re tired, sad or mad
17. Pay your bills on time
18. Get an annual physical examination
19. Say “I love you” to your significant other and to your children. Studies show that more marriages last, and fewer kids use drugs, when these words are spoken every day.
20. For just one day, imagine everyone’s intentions are good because most people’s are
21. Give away clothes that haven’t been worn in two years
22. Throw out clothes that are in disrepair, and can’t be mended
23. When you have a conflict with someone, talk it out. Don’t let it turn into more than it is.
24. Know what your priorities are in life, and act as if they are your priorities
25. Tell the truth
26. Don’t cheat
27. Don’t steal
28. If you’re holding on to a ridiculous grudge, let it go
29. Clean your house weekly, so that it doesn’t become too large a chore
30. Do your best at work, or at school
31. Don’t eat when you aren’t hungry
32. Eat when you are hungry
33. Be yourself
34. Say no unapologetically
35. Cook simple meals
36. Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses
37. Pay off your car before buying a new one
38. Organise your desk at the office
39. Change your smoke alarm batteries when the clocks spring forward, and again when they fall back
40. Organise your important paperwork
41. Take only half the clothes that you planned to take with you on holiday
42. Help your children with their homework every night, and have an open dialogue with their teachers
43. Have white sheets and white towels in children’s rooms/bathrooms, because they’re easily bleached
44. Spend your time with nice people
45. Avoid drama
46. Don’t text or talk on the phone while driving
47. Turn off the television/video games/computer; they’re time consumers
48. Don’t engage in office politics
49. Refuse to gossip, or talk behind other people’s backs
50. Do the dishes right after dinner
51. Never go to sleep angry
52. Ask nicely for what you need and want
53. Walk 10,000 steps per day to help your heart
54. Do 20 push-ups before speaking in anger
55. Leave work at work
56. Don’t befriend anyone that isn’t trustworthy
57. Don’t envy others
58. Have your oil changed
59. Take vitamin C BEFORE you catch a cold
60. Don’t work more than 8 hours per day
61. Weed your garden weekly
62. Wash your car weekly
63. Have a spring cleaning month every year, and do one room at a time
64. You don’t need to be best friends with work colleagues, but build respectful partnerships
65. Don’t drink and drive
66. Don’t look for reasons to be angry or sad, look for reasons to be happy. You’ll always be able to find plenty of each.
67. Be friendly with your neighbours
68. Return emails and phone messages promptly
69. Schedule in free time
70. Don’t procrastinate
71. Do what you say you’ll do, when you say you’ll do it
72. Be more flexible when you’re able to be
73. Forgive and forget. End of story.
74. Break the consumerism habit…put a three month moratorium in place on buying anything not deemed a necessity
75. Start your diet on September 1, rather than January 1, so that you won’t also have holiday pounds to lose
76. Take care of any health issues or concerns
77. Have your tires rotated
78. Have your brakes checked
79. Have your eyes checked
80. Don’t let your imagination run away with you
81. Let go of perfection in others
82. Let go of perfection in yourself
83. Don’t try to help those that refuse to help themselves
84. Find a way to reduce your commute to work
85. Have an alloted amount of worry time per day/week, that you strictly abide by
86. Drink more water
87. Eat more salmon
88. Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill
89. Wear your hair in a classic, easy to care for style
90. Finish what you start
91. Wear classic clothes and shoes that never go out of style
92. Create a daily routine
93. Have a 1, 5, 10 and 20 year plan for your financial and life goals
94. Slow down
95. Eat out less often
96. When you ask your husband which outfit looks best, thank him for his answer and wear the one he liked rather than focusing on why he didn’t like the other one
97. Allow your children to grow up
98. Clean out your garage, and donate anything that hasn’t been used in the past year
99. Stretch every day
100. If a relationship is over, let it go

I've been trying to work on numbers 9, 12, and 4 and they really do help a lot :) I am (not always 100% successfully) sticking to a stricter budget and putting away savings, and that helps me feel more secure and structured, which makes me happier. I'll get annoyed at something someone does (like my Mama waking me up to move my car, etc.) and instead of letting it bother me I think, "will this matter 30 years from now?" 99% of the time its no; I let go of the bad feelings, and this makes me happier. I love kissing and making up, so when I read this I tried to follow it better. Me and Ammon weren't even fighting but I could tell we might get frustrated if we kept talking about whatever it was we were talking about (I don't even remember what it was), so I just said, "I love you". I think it caught both of us off guard lol But it made us both smile, we kissed, we were both happier, and that definitely makes me happiest :)

So, if anyone would like to share what they've done I'd love to hear. BUT I would bet my left eye (not my right, I like that one better) that no one will lol its ok, I would just like everyone to know that I don't hate comments. I won't sacrifice a small goat or punch an elephant if you leave one. In fact, I'll actually love you for it.

Love,
Kxoxo